News

After video goes viral Harsha asks why close MR’s road

21 May, 2019

After a video went viral showing drivers honking when roads were closed for VIP movements, Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva questioned the need to close the road opposite the residence of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Dr. Harsha de Silva said that except for the road leading to the official residence of President Maithripala Sirisena, all other roads are open for traffic except that of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

“Saw clip where #lka drivers honking non-stop at Horton Place junction tired of waiting for VIP to pass. Wondering if really necessary to completely close major artery in front of @PresRajapaksa highly fortified residence inconveniencing so many. Cant one lane be open for traffic? Except for road leading to official residence of President @MaithripalaS all other roads are open for traffic except that of @PresRajapaksa. Road in front of @RW_UNP private residence, where he resides, is also open; both lanes,” Dr. Harsha de Silva tweeted.

Videos circulating on social media showed the public in Colombo expressing their anger after being forced to stop for VIP movements by honking their vehicle horns.

Videos showed drivers honking their horns in at least two locations in Colombo.

During the war it was routine for roads to be closed for VIP movements.

However the routine changed after the current Government took office.

Following the Easter Sunday attacks some roads near VIP houses and offices have now been closed and roads are also closed for some VIP vehicle movements. (Colombo Gazette)

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